RTA Launches Pilot Operation to Clean Traffic Signals UsingDrones

RTA Launches Pilot Operation to Clean Traffic Signals UsingDrones

News 9 months ago

Dubai. 16 December 2025:
Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has launched a pilot operation to
clean traffic signals across Dubai using drone technology. This innovative step
reflects RTA’s commitment to adopting advanced technologies within operational
processes and deploying smart solutions that align with a future-focused vision to
enhance service quality, optimise resource efficiency, and achieve the highest levels
of traffic safety for all road users.
The initiative enhances safety standards by eliminating the need for a manlift during
cleaning operations. It also reduces operational costs by limiting reliance on heavy
equipment, while supporting sustainability objectives through lower fuel and water
consumption and reduced emissions associated with conventional equipment.
Abdulla Ali Lootah, Director of Roads and Facilities Maintenance at Traffic and
Roads Agency, RTA, said that RTA continued to adopt advanced and innovative
technologies to enhance maintenance activities, sustain operational efficiency, and
ensure consistent performance across roads and related facilities in the Emirate. He
added that the pilot operation to deploy drones for cleaning traffic signals had
included a comparative assessment between the new technology and the traditional
method, focusing on time, cost, quality of execution, and compliance with safety
requirements.
Lootah added that the first phase had involved a series of trials at the Marrakech
Street–Rebat Street junction, where a limited traffic closure was implemented to
ensure the highest safety standards during the initial pilot phase. Preliminary results
demonstrated a reduction in operational time ranging from 25% to 50%, with the
drone completing the cleaning of a single side in just three to four minutes. The trials
also showed an estimated reduction in operational costs of up to 15% compared
with the traditional method, with projections indicating that this figure could rise to
25% in the future through the use of more advanced drone technologies.

Lootah emphasised the continuation of the pilot operation to ensure the effective
use of drone technologies in maintenance activities. He noted that the next phase
would assess the cleaning methodology, with a focus on achieving the highest
safety standards and avoiding any impact on traffic flow. These efforts will enhance
the quality of operational processes and further strengthen the performance of the
road infrastructure and network across the Emirate of Dubai.

Air Arabia connects Sharjah and Munich with daily non-stop flights

News 9 months ago

Sharjah, UAE; December 16, 2025: Air Arabia, the Middle East and North Africa’s first and largest budget carrier operator, has officially launched its daily non-stop flights between Sharjah and Munich, marking the airline’s first German destination served directly from Sharjah. The service is operated by the airline’s new Airbus A320neo, offering its customers enhanced comfort and convenience.

The inaugural flight was welcomed upon arrival with a special ceremony at Munich Airport attended by senior representatives from Air Arabia and the airport.

Commenting on the launch, Adel Al Ali, Group Chief Executive Officer, Air Arabia, said: “We are glad to commence our new non-stop service to Munich directly from Sharjah, a significant addition that further strengthens our growing footprint across Europe. This launch reflects our continued commitment to unlocking key destinations for our customers while offering greater choice and convenience.”

He added: “Munich stands as a major cultural and economic centre, and we are pleased to provide our customers with a direct service that delivers a reliable and value-added travel experience.”

Oliver Dersch, Senior Vice President Aviation, Munich Airport said: “We are delighted that Air Arabia has now launched its route between Munich and Sharjah. This expands travel options for our passengers and further strengthens Munich’s important role in the market to and from the GCC countries.”

The addition of Munich marks a strategic expansion in Air Arabia’s growing European network directly from the UAE, which already includes key destinations such as Vienna, Athens, Milan Bergamo, Krakow, Warsaw Chopin and soon to Warsaw Modlin and Prague.

Air Arabia operates a modern fleet comprised of Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft, the world’s best-selling single-aisle aircraft. The airline offers a value-added onboard experience with ‘SkyTime’, its complementary in-flight streaming service, and ‘SkyCafe’, its onboard menu. Passengers can also benefit from ‘Air Rewards’, the most generous loyalty program in the region.

Cosplay Con 2 Brings Al Wahda Mall to Life with Creativity, Culture & Community

News 9 months ago

Abu Dhabi, UAE , December 16, 2025: Al Wahda Mall once again transformed into a vibrant hub of pop-culture excitement with the return of Cosplay Con 2. The two-day celebration drew hundreds of anime fans, gamers, and performance enthusiasts, cementing the mall’s reputation as Abu Dhabi’s leading lifestyle and entertainment destination.

From dynamic cosplay competitions and catwalks to electrifying K-pop dance challenges, interactive anime games, and panels with international stars, the event offered a feast of imagination. Fans enjoyed meet-and-greet sessions and photo signings with celebrity cosplayers Prince De Guzman and Aiien Iverson, while performances by Horizon Dance, MOSSY_Cosplay, and Sinister 6 Crew kept energy levels soaring.

Speaking on the success of the event, Mayank M Pal, General Manager of Al Wahda Mall said: “Cosplay Con 2 exceeded all expectations as our mall came alive with color, talent, and community spirit. It is wonderful to see how events like this unite people from different cultures through creativity and shared passion. At Al Wahda Mall, we are proud to provide a platform where art, entertainment, and youth culture thrive side by side.”

5 Cosplay Con 2 Brings Al Wahda Mall to Life with Creativity, Culture & Community

The weekend also featured workshops, panels such as “From Local Stage to Global Spotlight: The Cosplayer’s Journey,” and engaging contests powered by online communities. The lively atmosphere attracted families and a young crowd generating strong footfall and wide social-media buzz across both English and Arabic audiences.

With its successful second edition, Cosplay Con 2 reinforces Al Wahda Mall’s commitment to curating memorable, inclusive experiences that celebrate art, diversity, and youth culture, all while positioning the mall as Abu Dhabi’s premier venue for lifestyle entertainment.

Culture & Community

UAE

Arab Youth Center concludes inaugural edition of Arabic Language Youth Council

News 9 months ago

Abu Dhabi, December 16, 2025 – The Arab Youth Center concluded the inaugural edition of the Arabic Language Youth Council (ALYC) during a ceremony held at Louvre Abu Dhabi, attended by Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qasimi, Minister of Culture, and Dr. Sultan bin Saif Al Neyadi, Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Vice Chairman of the Arab Youth Center.

The event marked the completion of a two-year programme aimed at empowering Arab youth and strengthening the role of the Arabic language in cultural, scientific, media, and digital fields. The council brought together a diverse group of young talents from across the Arab world and beyond, who led initiatives in content creation, research, lexicography, artificial intelligence, translation, calligraphy, and cultural diplomacy.

In his keynote address, Dr. Al Neyadi praised the council as a successful model for youth empowerment, stressing that Arabic remains a living language capable of keeping pace with modern science, innovation, and creativity. He highlighted the members’ contributions to producing high-quality Arabic content and representing the language confidently at regional and international forums.

Throughout its term, the council delivered youth-focused digital projects, scientific research papers, and specialised Arabic lexicons, including an environmental terminology dictionary developed in collaboration with academic and national institutions. Members also took part in major cultural platforms such as the Abu Dhabi and Sharjah International Book Fairs, alongside training workshops and dialogue sessions.

The ceremony featured a documentary showcasing the council’s achievements and honoured partners and members of the first cohort. The ALYC was launched through a strategic partnership between the Arab Youth Center and several national institutions, aiming to strengthen Arabic’s presence in knowledge-based and digital domains and reinforce youth engagement with their linguistic and cultural identity.

Shurooq brings Sharjah’s stories, landscapes, and familyexperiences to Sharjah Events Festival 2025

News 9 months ago

Sharjah, UAE: December 16 , 2025,
The Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) will participate in the Sharjah
Events Festival 2025 at Al Majaz Amphitheatre from 18-21 December 2025, presenting a unified
pavilion that reflects Sharjah’s identity as a place where culture, nature, learning, and family life
intersect.
Shurooq’s participation is designed as a public, family-focused experience rather than a single
showcase. By bringing together several of its destinations in one space, the pavilion offers
visitors a chance to explore different facets of Sharjah through hands-on activities, creative
workshops, and moments of play, all grounded in the emirate’s landscapes and heritage.
The pavilion brings together experiences inspired by Mleiha National Park, Al Noor Island, Al
Montazah Parks, Al Heera Beach, and Khorfakkan Beach, creating a journey that moves
from discovery and creativity to play and outdoor inspiration. Each destination contributes a
distinct layer to the overall experience, allowing families to engage at their own pace and
according to their interests.
A journey through Sharjah’s nature, heritage, and family experiences
At Mleiha National Park, the focus is on learning through exploration. Visitors can engage with
Sharjah’s geological and archaeological history through interactive displays featuring rocks and
fossils from the region, replica stone tools inspired by early human activity, and small 3D-printed
models of artefacts discovered at Mleiha’s archaeological sites. The experience introduces
children and parents alike to the deep history of the land in a tangible, accessible way.
Creative expression and environmental awareness shape the experience at Al Noor Island,
where visitors are invited to take part in nature-inspired workshops led by the island’s education
team. Activities include Art in Nature sessions that combine a self-guided plant discovery walk
with painting, as well as the Butterflies Collage Workshop, where participants create framed
artworks using preserved butterfly wings, pressed flowers, and natural decorative elements.
These workshops encourage reflection, creativity, and a closer connection to the natural world.

For younger visitors seeking energy and play, Al Montazah Parks introduces a lighter, more
playful atmosphere through interactive activities and mascot appearances that reflect the spirit
of Sharjah’s family parks. The experience adds movement and joy to the pavilion, balancing
learning and creativity with moments of fun.
Inspired by Sharjah’s coastline and mountain landscapes, Al Heera Beach and Khorfakkan
Beach offer creative activities that celebrate the emirate’s outdoor environments. Children can
shape and decorate clay inspired by waves, fish, and mountain forms, and take part in colouring
activities featuring landmark illustrations that reflect Sharjah’s coastal and natural character.
Complementing the activations, Al Bareed Café will be present on-site, reinforcing the
pavilion’s family-friendly atmosphere and completing the visitor journey.
An inclusive space bringing families together
Through this multi-layered participation, Shurooq aims to create an inclusive space that brings
families together, encourages curiosity, and highlights the diversity of experiences available
across Sharjah’s destinations. The pavilion reflects Shurooq’s broader commitment to enriching
everyday life through meaningful public experiences rooted in culture, nature, and community.
Visitors are invited to explore the Shurooq pavilion throughout the Sharjah Events Festival 2025
at Al Majaz Amphitheatre and take part in an experience designed to inspire learning, creativity,
and shared family moments.

UAE

Sharjah Ruler witnesses the official ceremony marking Faya inscription on the UNESCO World Heritage List

News 9 months ago

Sharjah’s Faya Site Inscribed on UNESCO World Heritage List

December 16 , 2025 : His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, attended the official ceremony celebrating the inscription of the Faya archaeological site on the UNESCO World Heritage List, held at the Mleiha Archaeological Centre.

In his address, the Ruler of Sharjah highlighted Faya’s exceptional global value, describing it as a living record of early human history that reshapes understanding of human migration and settlement. Archaeological discoveries at Faya, including stone tools dating back more than 200,000 years, confirm the Arabian Peninsula as an early homeland for modern humans rather than merely a migration corridor.

The ceremony was attended by senior members of the ruling families, government officials, cultural leaders, diplomats, and representatives of international institutions. His Highness inaugurated a commemorative monument marking the inscription and received the official UNESCO certificate from Lazare Eloundou Assomo, Director of the UNESCO World Heritage Centre.

Her Highness Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Ambassador of the Faya World Heritage Site, announced the launch of the Faya Research Grant, a Dh2 million international initiative to support scientific research, empower young scholars, and expand knowledge of the site’s role in human development.

UNESCO officials praised Sharjah’s long-term commitment to heritage preservation, noting that Faya is the UAE’s second World Heritage site and a landmark in understanding early human adaptation to arid environments.

The event featured artistic and scientific presentations retracing more than 210,000 years of human history, and concluded with honours awarded to partner institutions that contributed to the successful nomination, reinforcing Sharjah’s leading role in safeguarding humanity’s shared heritage.

Lulu Further Strengthens Jeddah Presence ; Marks its Partnership with Cenomi by Opening its Fisrt store at Aziz Mall

News 9 months ago

Jeddah, December 15, 2025: As part of its ongoing expansion strategy in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Lulu Retail has opened its 72nd store in KSA at Al Faisaliyyah, Jeddah, marking its first store at Cenomi Aziz Mall. This also represents Lulu’s 267th store across the GCC.

The newly opened Lulu Hypermarket at Cenomi Aziz Mall offers a modern and convenient shopping experience, featuring a curated selection of high-quality products and reinforcing the brand’s longstanding commitment to affordability and excellence.

The new Lulu Hypermarket was officially inaugurated by the Chief guest, Mohammed Yousuf Naghi, President and Chairman of the Board of Jeddah Chamber of Commerce & Industry(JCCI) in the presence of Nasser Huwaiden Thaiban Ali Alketbi, Consul General of UAE in Jeddah; Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri, Consul General of India in Jeddah; Rommel A. Romato, Consul General of the Republic of the Philippines in Jeddah; Yusuffali M.A., Chairman of Lulu Group; Khalid AlJanahi, Chief Commercial Officer at Cenomi Centers and other dignitaries.

Spans over 10157 square feet, the new Lulu Hypermarket offers a wide range of products from groceries to household products. Shoppers can find everything from fresh produce, and bakery items to meat, seafood, health and beauty products, mobile phones and accessories, and home furnishings. To ensure hassle free shopping, Lulu also provides self-check-out counters and ample parking space with a capacity for 3000 vehicles.

“This new hypermarket enhances the shopping experience for customers while supporting local economic growth and creating employment opportunities in the region. As its 72nd store in the Kingdom, the opening reflects Lulu’s commitment to Saudi Vision 2030. Lulu continues to expand across key locations in Saudi Arabia and aims to open 100 stores to meet the needs of its growing customer base,” said Yusuffali M.A., Chairman of Lulu Group.

Also present on the occasion were Ashraf Ali M.A., Executive Director of Lulu, Mohamed Haris , Director of Lulu KSA and other dignitaries.

DCT Abu Dhabi Celebrates Strategic Milestones with Emirate’s Culture and Tourism Leaders in Al Ain Region

News 9 months ago

Al Ain Region, Abu Dhabi, UAE – 15 December 2025: The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) celebrated significant results across industry metrics with the emirate’s leading travel and tourism partners during the third annual City Tourism Briefing, hosted at Al Jahili Fort in Al Ain Region.

The event attracted 400 participants from across the industry, including representatives of hotels, attractions, DMCs, developers and airlines. They convened to evaluate the robust growth across Abu Dhabi’s tourism and hospitality sector, foster strategic collaborations, and accelerate progress towards the ambitious goals of the emirate’s Tourism Strategy 2030.

HE Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, Director General for Tourism of DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “In collaboration with our industry partners, we have continued to drive success across every segment: culture, leisure, business, and live entertainment. The City Tourism Briefing provides a vital platform for us to celebrate these milestones with the entire ecosystem, and to align on goals and strengthen the collaboration that will further steer momentum toward the ambitions of Tourism Strategy 2030 and ensure that Abu Dhabi remains a world-leading destination shaped by innovation and excellence.”

During the briefing, DCT Abu Dhabi officials provided updates on the sector’s performance this year, revealed plans for 2026, and led presentations on the role of marketing campaigns and cultural heritage in promoting the sector locally and internationally.

A significant portion of the briefing focused on enhancing connectivity and infrastructure, highlighting the critical role of robust transport networks in supporting the emirate’s tourism objectives. A panel discussion featured transport leaders Antonoaldo Neves, CEO of Etihad Airways; Adel Ali, Group CEO of Air Arabia; Nathalie Jongma, Vice President Aviation Development at Abu Dhabi Airports Company; and Azza Al Suwaidi, Deputy CEO of Mobility at Etihad Rail.

Etihad Airways revealed that in 2026 it will significantly expand its destination network. Celebrating similar success, Abu Dhabi Airports noted that it continues to enjoy double-dight growth.

Demonstrating Abu Dhabi’s commitment to sustainable development and investment, the briefing featured a Developers Panel Discussion, which brought together Marc Dardenne, CEO of Modon Hospitality, Kapil Aggarwal, CEO of Aldar Hospitality, and Jonathan Brown, Chief Portfolio Officer of Miral, to explore upcoming projects and investment opportunities that will further enhance the visitor experience.

During the panel each shared their enthusiasm for announced projects including Disneyland Abu Dhabi, National History Museum Abu Dhabi, enhancements to Al Ain Zoo, Harry Potter Themed Land at Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi’s first Nobu hotel, the opening of Surf Abu Dhabi, and the upcoming velodrome cycling project.

Attendees learned of the emirate’s remarkable tourism growth for the year’s first 10 months, which is a testament to DCT Abu Dhabi’s strategic vision. The emirate’s hotels welcomed 4.9 million guests between January and October 2025, with average length of stay increasing to 2.8 nights. During the same period hotel revenues surged by 18% year-on-year. Revenue per available room (RevPAR) experienced a 21% year-on-year increase, and hotel occupancy remained strong at 80%. Al Ain and Al Dhafra regions also reported notable increases in hotel guests and RevPAR, showcasing the success of a diversified, emirate-wide strategy.

DCT Abu Dhabi is on a record pace for MICE events, hosting 14 mega-scale events during the first 10 months of 2025, with a pipeline of nine mega-scale events till end of 2025. Abu Dhabi is expecting to close the year with 1.75 million MICE visitors, 13% more than last year.

Aligned with DCT Abu Dhabi’s efforts to enhance the visitor experience through the introduction of numerous initiatives, Abu Dhabi’s cultural sites and museums welcomed more than 6 million visitors between January and October 2025, with approximately one million visitors attending festivals and programmes across the emirate.

Befitting the location of this year’s City Tourism Briefing in Al Ain Region, the Gulf Capital of Tourism for 2025, attendees were treated to cultural activations that included Oud and Dukhoon fragrance workshops, Ayala and Harbia dance performances, and Azi and Taghrooda poetry. The activations concluded with a Cholib horse show presented by Abu Dhabi Police during the gala dinner.

The strong performance indicators and collaborative spirit at this year’s City Tourism Briefing demonstrated the power and potential of Abu Dhabi’s unified tourism ecosystem. The progress achieved to date represents a major step towards achieving the emirate’s Tourism Strategy 2030 goals: attracting 39.3 million visitors annually, supporting the creation of 178,000 new tourism jobs, expanding hotel capacity to 52,000 rooms, and contributing AED 90 billion to Abu Dhabi’s GDP by the end of the decade.

Rixos Marina Abu Dhabi Hosts My Heart is Yours Artwork by World-Renowned Artist Lorenzo Quinn

News 9 months ago

Abu Dhabi, UAE (15^th December 2025): Championing artistic expression, Rixos Marina Abu Dhabi has recently partnered with the globally acclaimed contemporary artist Lorenzo Quinn. As part of the collaboration, one of the talented artist’s sculptures, My Heart is Yours, is now on display in the hotel lobby for an exclusive installation. Valued at EUR 295,000 / AED 1.2M, the striking artwork is a powerful symbol of artistic expression, in equal parts thought-provoking and beautiful.

Set along Abu Dhabi’s stunning Corniche, Rixos Marina Abu Dhabi has become known for its creative programming and engaging visual installations, continually presenting guests with new experiences to enjoy. Having hosted several eye-catching lobby showcases and unique cultural collaborations in the past, the property consistently curates moments that elevate stays and spark meaningful connections.

Bringing his unique talents to the property, Lorenzo Quinn is a celebrated contemporary sculptor renowned for his expressive figurative works, often depicting themes of love, connection, faith, and human emotion. Having lived between Italy and the United States, Quinn studied at the American Academy of Fine Arts in New York before dedicating his career to sculpture at the age of 21.

Influenced by iconic masters such as Michelangelo, Bernini, and Rodin, Quinn has exhibited his work extensively across the world. His monumental public pieces, including Support at the Venice Biennale 2017, Together at the Giza Pyramids, The Greatest Goal for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, and Building Bridges at the Venice Biennale 2019, have earned him global acclaim for their emotional depth and universal messages. His art also forms part of important collections internationally, showcasing his timeless values and authentic storytelling.

Crafted in polished bronze with a stainless-steel mesh heart, My Heart is Yours captures the profound bond shared between two souls who entrust their entire beings to one another. Two sculpted hands gently present a heart illuminated from within, that shifts through a spectrum of colours to evoke the fluidity of human emotion. The captivating piece allows viewers to pause and reflect, drawing them in with its striking form, symbolic warmth, and powerful message of unity and shared humanity.

Rixos Marina Abu Dhabi remains a strong supporter of the arts, continuing to champion artistic expression through collaborations that celebrate creativity, culture, and community. By offering a platform for renowned artists and thought-provoking works, the hotel enhances its environment with experiences that go beyond traditional hospitality.

UAE

GLOBAL LIVE ENTERTAINMENT LEADER MOMENT FACTORY EXPANDS TO ABU DHABI TO POWER CULTURAL AND TOURISM MEGA-PROJECTS

News 9 months ago

Abu Dhabi, December 15, 2025 – Moment Factory, the global entertainment studio renowned for transforming airports, museums, public spaces, events, theme parks and natural sites into immersive destinations, is establishing a regional office in Abu Dhabi. Leveraging 25 years of multimedia innovation, the studio aims to support the UAE’s rapid growth through high-profile collaborations.

Building on over five years of work in the region, this strategic hub allows Moment Factory to actively support the development of ambitious, large-scale cultural destinations by leveraging its creative and technological expertise to bring people together and inspire a shared sense of wonder through memorable experiences.

Among its recent standout projects in the region, Moment Factory is honored to collaborate with the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, located in the Saadiyat Cultural District, and Miral, bringing to life a new generation of immersive exhibitions and experiences for visitors of all ages. In addition to this permanent work, the studio collaborated with People on the grand opening of the museum, where it acted as creative consultant and content creator for the ceremony. This collaboration with People also extended to the production of a multimedia show for the Eid Al Etihad celebrations inaugurating the Zayed National Museum, an event commissioned by the National Projects Office.

Expanding its expertise across various sectors, Eagle Hills Properties commissioned Moment Factory to develop a permanent, immersive multimedia experience, transforming the iconic Al Ain Oasis heritage site into a captivating walkthrough. Furthermore, the studio teamed up with Brag World for the BEE’AH Headquarters in Sharjah, delivering custom content for kinetic digital stations and the building’s LED facade.

Moment Factory’s reach in interactive entertainment continues with the return of its Augmented Games to the MOTN Festival, following Hiwy Games, a successful adaptation inspired by traditional Emirati culture for the UAE Olympic House in Paris.

Moment Factory, Augmented Games at MOTN Festival

By forging strong, lasting relationships with regional collaborators, the studio aims to create iconic destinations and innovative immersive experiences that celebrate the region’s identity and cultural heritage.

“We are particularly excited to lend our expertise to the current momentum, focusing on landmark projects that will define the region’s entertainment future. Expanding into Abu Dhabi represents a major milestone for us, providing an opportunity to push the boundaries of innovation and creativity into new territories and grow alongside the region’s ambitious vision,” says Dominic Audet, Co-Founding Partner and Chief of Innovation at Moment Factory.

This strategic expansion reflects Moment Factory’s ongoing focus on market diversification. With more than 70 diverse projects delivered worldwide this year, this growth is highlighted by recent, permanent standout projects such as Curiosity Cove at Mandai Wildlife Reserve in Singapore, Realmadrid Games at the Bernabéu stadium in Madrid, and multiple Moment Factory ticketed experiences in the United States, Australia, Türkiye, Mexico, France, and Chile. Moment Factory’s portfolio features some of the world’s most ambitious multimedia installations, from reimagining Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 and creating immersive universes at Sphere in Las Vegas to leading creative direction and stage design for global music artists, such as Billie Eilish and TWICE.

Looking ahead, Moment Factory is committed to redefining visitor experiences in entertainment, tourism, cultural institutions, theme parks and urban development, with a clear focus on designing and realizing world-class, permanent attractions to create memorable moments for Emiratis and visitors.